Overview of the Situation
A female cruise ship passenger in her thirties presented to the ship’s doctor with a week-long history of general malaise, flank pain, and fever. A urinalysis test was positive for an infection, and a course of intravenous antibiotics was commenced to treat pyelonephritis. However, due to persistent fever, thrombocytosis, worsening inflammatory blood markers, and severe anaemia without active bleeding, on-board management was no longer an option. She was referred to a small island hospital, but they declined admission due to her severe condition and limited resources.
Initial Client Requests
The MedResQ medical team was activated to assist in managing the patient’s critical condition. Our team evaluated the medical data and laboratory test results and determined that an evacuation by air ambulance to the nearest place of medical safety was necessary. The ship’s doctor maintained close contact with MedResQ, allowing real-time monitoring of the patient’s condition.
Escalation and Challenges
The patient’s condition was complicated by her past medical history of chronic anaemia with a suspected family history of haematological disorders, and a haemoglobin level of 5.8 g/dL, which is less than half the normal level for a female of her age. This situation necessitated urgent and advanced medical intervention that the small island hospital could not provide.
Action Plan Implementation
Medical Assessment
The MedResQ medical team liaised with a level-3 trauma centre in Grand Cayman to make the necessary admission arrangements.
Logistical Coordination
The MedResQ team contacted its network of air ambulance operators and secured a flight on the same day that the ship arrived in port, ensuring minimal delay in the patient receiving much-needed treatment. Our team provided detailed planning and coordination, involving the ship’s doctor, the patient, ground and air ambulance teams, and the receiving hospital, while keeping the client updated at all stages.
MedResQ’s Response in Action
The rapid evaluation and activation of trusted partners within our global network allowed MedResQ to transfer the patient from the ship to the hospital in under 24 hours. Upon arrival at the trauma centre, the patient underwent assessments by a nephrologist, haematologist, and radiologist. She was diagnosed with bilateral severe pyelonephritis, a renal abscess, a liver abscess, and severe iron-deficient nutritional anaemia. After a 2-week admission, including multiple blood and iron transfusions and intravenous antibiotic therapy, the patient was stable for discharge.
Successful Resolution
Upon discharge, the patient’s haemoglobin was stable and rising, her overall clinical condition had significantly improved, and her intravenous treatment had been discontinued. MedResQ coordinated her repatriation to her home country and arranged for a medical assessment upon her return.
Evaluation and Learning Points
Speed MedResQ’s expertise and robust partner network enabled a swift evacuation, ensuring the patient received prompt assessment and treatment in a place of medical safety.
Cost Our close relationships with network partners ensured competitive pricing and transparent costs in delivering premium medical services.
Health Drawing on our vast experience, MedResQ ensured the patient was referred to a suitable hospital capable of managing her complex health issues.
Holistic Care
